This is the second article in our Server trilogy, you can read the first here.
Modern cloud services offer compelling advantages that businesses can’t afford to ignore. For most companies, the question is when, not if they should move to the cloud.
But first, what do we mean by ‘the cloud’?
In simple terms, cloud computing allows you to access computing resources – such as storage, databases, networking, and software – over the internet instead of relying on local hardware.
Benefits of Moving to the Cloud
Cost Efficiency
Let’s be real: buying and maintaining your own servers is like adopting a high-maintenance pet. It’s expensive, needy, and prone to unexpected issues. With cloud computing, you rent what you need, when you need it. No hardware purchases, no IT room in your office that doubles as a sauna in summer. Pay for what you use and scale up or down like a Netflix subscription.
Enhanced Security
Azure, Microsoft’s cloud platform is like a digital Fort Knox, offering features such as multi-factor authentication, advanced threat protection, and compliance with industry standards like GDPR and HIPAA. Microsoft invests billions (with a B!) into security so you don’t have to. You get enterprise-grade security features, without needing to know what “end-to-end encryption” means.
Remote Access and Flexibility
With an in-house server, accessing files and applications remotely often requires complex VPN setups or remote desktop protocols. Cloud services, on the other hand, are designed for accessibility. Employees can work from anywhere with an internet connection, which supports modern hybrid and remote work environments seamlessly.
Scalability
As your business grows, so do your computing needs. Scaling an on-premise server typically means investing in new hardware. With cloud platforms like Azure, scaling is as simple as adjusting your service plan. You can increase or decrease resources in real-time based on demand, which is particularly useful for businesses with fluctuating workloads.
Business Continuity and Disaster Recovery
Data loss due to hardware failure, natural disasters, or cyberattacks can be devastating. Cloud platforms include built-in redundancy and backup solutions to ensure your data is safe and recoverable. Azure offers automated backup and disaster recovery options that help you get back to business quickly after an incident.
Automatic Updates and Maintenance
One of the less glamorous but crucial tasks of maintaining a server is applying software updates and patches. With cloud services, these updates happen automatically, ensuring that your systems are always secure and up to date without requiring manual intervention or downtime.
So, should you ditch your server?
While the benefits are clear, the decision to move to the cloud should be based on your business’s specific needs. Here are a few signs it might be time to consider ditching your server:
- you’re spending too much time or money maintaining hardware.
- you’re concerned that competitors may be gaining an edge from leveraging new and better technology
- you need better support for remote work.
- your current server isn’t meeting performance or storage needs.
- you’re concerned about data security and compliance.
- you want more predictable IT costs.
The cloud isn’t just a trend—it’s the future of business computing. For small businesses, platforms like Microsoft Azure offer powerful, secure, and cost-effective alternatives to traditional in-house servers. While every business is different, the agility and scalability of the cloud make it a smart move for many.
Security, manageability, BYOD, cost and many other factors make moving to the cloud a complex proposition. The right IT partner however will guide you through these challenges and risks; resulting in an IT infrastructure aligned to your business and its goals.
Wessex IT are a Microsoft Cloud Solution Provider (CSP) with an official specialism in Small and Midmarket Cloud Solutions. We are also a Microsoft Authorised Education Provider (AEP). As well as working with industry leaders we also own and operate our own cloud platform in UK data centres using the latest hyperconverged architecture.
[And should you be interested in private cloud, hybrid cloud or even on-premises, we have extensive experience in the design, implementation and management of these architectures.]
The final part in our ‘Should you ditch your server?’ trilogy looks at two of Microsoft Azure’s services: IaaS and PaaS – and don’t worry, we will tame the acronyms for you.
